Malta🇲🇹
Malta is a Southern European island country consisting of an archipelago, located in the Mediterranean Sea, 80 km south of Italy. It shares maritime borders with Italy, Libya and Tunisia. The official languages are Maltese and English. The country is known for its world-class diving sites, rich history, stunning architecture including numerous fortresses, megalithic temples and the Hal Saflieni Hypogeum, the only known prehistoric underground temple in the world. The iconic Azure Window was a landmark limestone natural arch, until its collapse in 2017. Its capital city, Valletta, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Maltese islands offer a diverse array of activities, from exploring ancient sites and medieval cities, to enjoying the blue Mediterranean Sea and beach clubs in St Julian's.
⚠️Things you should avoid⚠️
- Disrespecting local traditions and norms: Malta is a Catholic country with a conservative culture, respect local norms especially during religious festivities.
- Not obeying traffic rules: The lack of traffic discipline would cause major accidents.
- Buying imitation goods: It's illegal to purchase from street vendors selling imitation products.
- Ignoring pedestrian rules: Jaywalking could result in fines.
- Not protecting oneself from the sun: Malta has an intense Mediterranean sun, it's necessary to protect oneself.
- Swimming in risky areas: Not all shores are safe due to undercurrents and jellyfish. Observe warning signs at beaches.
- Inappropriate clothing in religious and formal settings: Casual wear is accepted in tourist areas but more formal wear might be required in some areas.
- Feeding the pigeons: It’s illegal, you can be fined for feeding pigeons in public places.
- Ignoring Coral and Marine protection rules: Malta takes protection of its marine life very seriously. It's against the law to remove coral, sea shells or marine animals.
- Not securing personal belongings: While Malta has lower crime rates, petty crimes like pickpocketing are common in tourist destinations.
Overall
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Crime 🔫
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Malta has a relatively low crime rate compared to other European countries. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing are the most common problem, particularly in crowded areas. Violent crimes are rare, but occasional gang-related incidents are reported. As in any country, visitors should take the usual precautions to avoid becoming victims of crime. Heavier crime is often associated with various gang activities in Malta. Most common crime areas are Paceville and St Julian's.
Terrorism 💣
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Threat from terrorism is low. There are no recent incidences of terrorism in Malta but global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be against civilian targets, including places frequent by foreigners, is a concern.
War ⚔️
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Malta is a peaceful country and there has been no recent history of warfare or civil unrest. Its strategic location in the Mediterranean has historically made it of interest to many military powers, but currently it enjoys stable relations with neighbouring countries.
Natural Disasters 🌊
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Malta is relatively safe from natural hazards with minor occurrences of earthquakes. However, occasional tremors are felt due to the seismic activity in the Mediterranean. The storm in February 2019 caused severe damage across the Maltese Islands, leading to the collapse of the well-known natural arch, the Azure Window.
Medical Care 🏥
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Malta has a very good standard of healthcare. Both public and private hospitals are well equipped. However, complex medical conditions might require evacuation to a European mainland. The Mater Dei Hospital and St. James Hospital are amongst the highly renowned.
Tap Water Quality 💧
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Tap water in Malta is safe to drink, although it has high mineral content which can have an unpleasant taste. For this reason, many tourists and locals prefer to drink bottled water.
Disease Burden 🤒
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There are no major disease risks endemic in Malta. However, it's always good to keep up to date with routine vaccines.
Corruption 💸
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Corruption is a moderate risk in Malta. The most corruption-prone sectors are public procurement, land administration and political parties. However, progress has been made in recent years to tackle this issue.
Safety for Women ♀️
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Malta is generally safe for women, but it is always advisable to take standard precautions. Instances of harassment or assault are no more frequent than in other European countries.
Safety for Queer People 👬
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Malta is one of the most gay-friendly countries in the world. The government has implemented comprehensive rights legislation and the society is largely accepting. As always, discretion is advisable in more conservative areas.
Censorship 📺
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Freedom of expression is generally respected in Malta. Some controversy and legal action has surrounded the assassinated journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia who was investigating corruption in Malta.
Public Transportation 🚌
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Transport Malta provides regular services linking to many parts of the island. The buses are usually filled to capacity but are safe. Taxis and car hires are also good options.
Other useful information
🔒 How safe is it?
Malta, as a whole, is considered to be a rather safe destination for travellers. While the crime rate is low, petty crime or burglaries, do exist, as well as occasional scams. It's recommended to use common sense, just like you would at home. With a low rate of violent crime, it's a safe country to walk around in, even at night. But it is always better to stay in well-lit, populous areas.
🏰 Embassies in this Country
Embassies in Malta include those of the UK on Whitehall Mansions, Ta' Xbiex, U.S. in Ta’ Qali National Park, and Australia on Triq Barnaba. There are also numerous consulates from various countries.
💉 Recommended Vaccinations
No special vaccinations are required for Malta. The CDC and WHO recommend travellers to Malta to be up-to-date on routine vaccines like measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), polio, and yearly flu shot.
🐍 Dangerous Animals
Malta has very few dangerous animals. Some venomous snakes do exist, but are extremely rare to encounter. There are also some jellyfishes and sea urchins in the waters around Malta that are hazardous.
🛂 Visa Requirements
Malta is a part of the Schengen agreement, meaning that US, Canada, and Australia travel citizens do not need a visa to travel to Malta for stays of up to 90 days.
💲 Currency
The currency in Malta is the Euro. Money can be exchanged at banks, exchange bureaus, hotels, and airports. Credit cards are widely accepted and ATMs are readily available.
💳 Credit Card Acceptance
Major credit cards are widely accepted by stores and restaurants. However, it is advised to carry some cash as small shops or cafes may not accept cards.
👩🍳 Is it possible to work and travel in this country?
Work and travel is possible in Malta, especially in seasonal tourism roles, teaching English, and more skilled work in industries like healthcare and IT. EU citizens can work without a work permit. Non-EU citizens will need to apply for an Employment License.
💵 Cost of Travel and Living
Compared to other European countries Malta is reasonably affordable, though prices in touristic areas can be higher. Meals at restaurants cost between 15 to 20 EUR per person while fast food is about 7 EUR. Public transport is cheap. Accommodation costs can vary significantly between budget hotels and luxury resorts.